Mahalaya is a combined word. It is formed by the combination of two words i.e Maha and Alaya. Maha means Virat(Grand), Alaya means griha (Abode). This Mahalaya is the body itself where the soul resides. This body is exposed to outside stimulation. The soul becomes impure which has a corresponding desecrating impact on all the actions. Man has a propensity to stoop to unrighteous enterprise in life which often turns him to beast and ‘soils’ his soul. Man’s corporeal frame or physical body is a veritable durga or fort. The saviour of this durga is Durga. Durga Puja starts from Mahalaya and continues till the ‘Vijaya Dasami’. On the Mahalaya day we offer ablutions or tarpan to our Pitru purusa (forefathers). The tarpan commences ritualistically with the mantra, Pitarah Trupyatu.
- Maha and Alaya: The breakdown of the word into “Maha” meaning grand or vast and “Alaya” meaning abode is insightful. It can be seen as representing the body as the grand abode where the soul resides.
- Purity and Impurity of the Soul: The idea that external influences and impure actions can affect the soul’s purity is a common concept in many religious and philosophical traditions. Maintaining the purity of the soul is a central theme in Hinduism.
- Durga as the Savior: The comparison of the human body to a fort and Durga as its savior is a beautiful metaphor. In Hindu mythology, Goddess Durga is often seen as the protector and savior of devotees from various evils.
- Durga Puja: You’ve correctly noted that Durga Puja starts from Mahalaya and continues until Vijaya Dashami, which marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura. During Mahalaya, it’s customary to offer tarpan (ritual offerings) to one’s forefathers as a sign of respect and remembrance.
This body can not be fit for worship of Goddess Durga unless it is liberated from “Pasusamskar” and “Jiva Samskar”. The evil qualities are always distracting man from his divine path. This is only one road that leads to God. The real significance of Mahalaya can be understood through “Kriya Yoga Sadhana” (re-integration through action).
Mahalaya represents the beginning of a spiritually significant period in Hinduism and is a time for reflection, purification, and preparation for the celebration of Goddess Durga’s victory during Durga Puja.
